Clovis, NM – Ninth Judicial District Attorney Quentin Ray announced today that after a week-long trial, a jury found Adrian Chavez guilty of 2nd Degree Murder, Aggravated Burglary, and Tampering with Evidence in the killing of Kelsey Cash.

On March 23, 2022, the Major Crimes Unit (MCU) was activated to investigate the tragic death of Kelsey Cash. Throughout the trial, the State showed that Chavez had been in a tumultuous on-and-off relationship with Cash. Phone call evidence showed that Chavez had called Cash numerous times that night and was the last to speak with Cash.  Surveillance footage presented in court showed Chavez arriving at Cash’s apartment in a black Dodge Charger and fleeing the scene within minutes of a 911 call reporting the incident. Evidence indicated that Chavez forcibly entered the apartment by kicking in the door and proceeded to fire 13 gunshots at Cash. Eyewitness identified the shooter as wearing a white hoodie and leaving the scene in the black Charger.

Upon executing a search warrant at Chavez’s residence, the Major Crimes Unit recovered critical evidence, including:

  • Nike Jordan tennis shoes with the same design pattern as a footprint lifted from the crime scene door.
  • 9mm ammunition with the same head stamp as those left at the crime scene.
  • an empty 9mm gun case.
  • A white hoodie, as described by the eyewitnesses, found in the washing machine which had been bleached along with other clothing including dark pants and socks.

Kelsey Cash was a beloved mother, daughter, sister and friend. Throughout the trial, her family and friends filled the courtroom, seeking justice in her name.

“Today, justice was served for Kelsey Cash and her loved ones. We commend the jury for their service and for holding Adrian Chavez accountable for this senseless act of violence,” said District Attorney Quentin Ray.

Chavez now faces up to 30 years in the Department of Corrections, with a sentencing hearing to be scheduled at a later date.

The case was prosecuted by District Attorney Quentin Ray and Assistant District Attorney Anthony Jaimes, while Chavez was represented by defense attorney, Dan Lindsey of Clovis, NM. The Honorable Fred Van Soelen presided over the case.